#makeraphaelromanceable

[nepherit]

the endgame I wanted

[cherriesandsulphur]

"I've grown quite fond of you, you know - in my way."

[alwachart]

How to sleep with your cambion

I had other sketches planned but I ended up doing something new for the Raphael romance event

@dmagedgoods thank you for creating it! I wouldn't have pushed myself to paint without it lol

[scuttlingcrab]

What if Raphael sent Tav an embarrassing gift? Something he'd definitely find pleasure in, but Tav would be mortified to receive? xD

LOL. Thank you for sending me this one. I died writing this, had me grinning from beginning to end. x

Summary: Raphael gives Tav, his very favourite client, a generous gift after she signs his contract.

Notes: Some suggestive imagery from the devil we know and love.

Link to my other work in the Devil's Archive.

The Devil's Muse

(Image via keylana-dragon)

“I beg your indulgence. A brief word, before you depart.” 

Raphael spoke in a low rumble, intending his voice for Tav but unperturbed whether or not the other companions overheard him. 

Tav hesitated, her ears perking up as his voice shattered the silence. She hovered near the door of his suite in Sharess’ Caress, halfway through the threshold as she attempted to make her leave. Shadowheart, Astarion, and Karlach waited on the landing outside, the companions lingering like flies on a rotten corpse. 

Raphael casually leaned against the desk, resting his hands on the smooth, rich rosewood. He lightly tapped his fingers on the surface, warming up his digits before the second performance began. 

The little mouse was always the last to leave his company, lagging behind her companions. It was only for a moment, but that was long enough for Raphael to take note, keeping a detailed record after each encounter.

She tried to play coy, never giving Raphael the satisfaction of losing himself in those dark delectable eyes. He could often feel Tav’s gaze on him as soon as he turned his back to her, those eyes burning through his very body and spirit. 

Despite her attempts of acting aloof, with her crossed arms and narrowed lips, she remained at the forefront of their conversations. Raphael would catch her leaning towards him, edging closer as he spoke his rhymes of wisdom and warning. Tav in turn spoke softly when she addressed Raphael, her words blunt yet voice cracking with emotion. 

That confounded mortal fanned the flames of his desires the more detached she presented herself. She was becoming a nuisance; occupying every waking thought and following him freely into every dream. Raphael had an insatiable longing for carnality, his chest overflowing with passion. He had been reduced to his primal instincts, letting his lust for that woman lead his motivations instead of his ambitions for the Crown. He would need to be more cautious. 

“There is one thing I wish to show you… now that the contract has been signed.”

Tav raised an eyebrow, biting her bottom lip as she watched Raphael, waiting for him to continue.

“What in the flaming Hells does he want now?” Karlach shouted, shoving her obnoxious face through the doorway. “C’mon soldier, we need to leave.” 

Karlach placed a hand on Tav’s arm, trying to lure her outside. Tav remained cemented, grabbing Karlach’s hand in return. 

“Hold on a minute.” Tav responded, “let’s hear what he has to say.”

“It would be in your best interest, little mouse, if it was just the two of us.” An edge of warning in Raphael’s tone.

“Oh, go on then, devil.” Karlach sneered.

“Come now, Karlach, no need to be unpleasant. Can we not speak with civility?” 

Tav regarded the situation with curiosity, her intense stare shifting around the room. Raphael could just about hear the rusted cogs turning inside of that tadpoled infested brain of hers.

Tav nodded, walking to the centre of the suite. 

“Alright, Raphael. I’m not interested in any more secrets. Whatever you have to say or show can be done in front of everyone.”

Karlach stomped her way into the room, standing close behind Tav. The Tiefling's infernal engine roared, the flames in her chest growing more chaotic as she shot Raphael a scathing glance. Shadowheart and Astarion shared a few hushed words as they followed Karlach, shuffling reluctantly back inside the Devil’s Den. 

“So be it, if you insist.” 

Raphael snapped his fingers and a large painting sizzled into view, suspended above them. The entire party gasped in unison. 

“A gift for my new treasured client.”

The painting showcased Tav reclining on a leather chaise lounge against a dark grey backdrop, her body bending with pleasure. She was draped in a red robe, the sleeves falling loosely off her slender shoulders, stopping just above the hill of her breasts. Her eyes were closed and her lips wore a savoury smile, as if she was on the cusp of release. Her dark wavy hair poured off the edge of the furniture like a waterfall. 

Raphael beamed, his lips curling into a satisfied smirk as he respected the painting in the very presence of his muse. He had painted Tav’s likeness from memory, hoping he would be able to do her justice by capturing her unique beauty on the canvas. 

Whether Tav signed Raphael’s contract that afternoon was debatable, he would’ve delivered his gift to the little mouse regardless of the outcome.

He had worked diligently behind the scenes since their last rendezvous in the Shadow-Cursed Lands; sketching mockups, painting, re-painting, one failed canvas after another, until he successfully recreated the image that plagued his mind for what felt like an eternity.

Raphael knew it would never be perfect, he still found flaws as he stared at the painting; minor errors in the brushstrokes, a few shadows that could’ve perhaps been blended better. He only hoped it added to the charm and the little mouse would not notice. 

Raphael returned his attention to his guests, immediately observing Tav. She was frozen in place, her eyes wide and fixed on the painting, as if she was hypnotised by it. There was something different to her face now, something Raphael always yearned to see from the mortal. A faint gleam in those eyes, a playful smile slowly crawling up her delicate lips the more she stared at the artwork. Had he stirred something in the little mouse? At long last? 

“Perhaps, at a later time, we can admire it together, once the Crown is in my possession, yes? Until then, it will remain in my House of Hope. For safekeeping, naturally.”

“This has got to be a fucking joke, right?” Karlach shouted, getting in between Tav and Raphael. “I told you he was a creep!”

“I don’t know, it does capture her essence... in a drab, lifeless kind of way.” Shadowheart murmured, her cheeks blushing as she continued to gape at the painting.  

“And here I was thinking only his poetry was questionable.” Astarion whispered, giggling like an ill-behaved schoolboy. 

“I often forget how ignorant you mortals are. A pity.” 

Raphael straightened his posture and kept his chin held high. He tightly clasped his hands behind his back, imagining what it would feel like to have his fingers around the companions' brittle necks, ridding them of their pitiful lives. Those foolish twits would feel his wrath in due time. Perhaps one, or two, would perish when they fought the Elder Brain. Yes, that would be most preferable.

Raphael instead approached Tav, ignoring the companions and their onslaught of criticisms. He turned to face the painting, standing beside her. Raphael could see Tav out of the corner of his eye, feeling the warmth radiating off her body as she continued to stare at the artwork. 

“I never took you for a painter, Raphael.”  

“I occasionally dabble in mortal amusements from time to time, when I’m feeling inclined.”

“And do you always give your clients such risqué gifts? These types of things are open to suggestions.” 

“It’s an innocent gift, I assure you. But now I am most curious, what does this painting tell you?”

Raphael crossed his arms, his fingers trembling as he raised a hand to his chin, anticipating her answer. 

“A promise of what could be? Maybe what more could be offered?”

“Very astute. I have been known to provide exceptional entertainment when certain deals have been met.”

Raphael tilted his head, taking an opportunity to lean towards Tav. It was a subtle gesture, but their bodies were now touching, linked together. With his arms still crossed, he removed an index finger from his lower extremity, lightly caressing Tav’s exposed forearm. The little mouse did not flinch at his touch but he saw her smile grow. 

“One note though.” Tav whispered. 

“Go on?” 

“I think my jawline is a bit off, don’t you think?”

Raphael bit his tongue, unsure whether he wanted to incinerate the little mouse or take her by the neck and violently kiss her.

Raphael had Tav's signature but he’d only praise the occasion when that little mouse bestowed the Crown to him. Her contract didn’t amount to a hill of beans when compared to his grander schemes. Raphael would not rest until he had succeeded in his plight to unite the Nine Hells, until he faced Mephistopheles, and claimed his birthright. 

Raphael had once made a promise to himself not to allow any distractions. It was too perilous, opening him up to failure and eternal punishment. But that damned little mouse found a way through his defences, crept through the cracks of what he thought was a sturdy foundation. The woman had caught Raphael in her snare. Until he held her in his arms, until she was his, she would continue to plague his dreams. Perhaps along the road to ascension, he would add Tav’s heart to his list of conquests. 

“I will make sure to keep that in mind for my next piece.” Raphael noted, turning to face the rest of the party. 

The silence was heavy, the awkwardness weighing on the companions. Raphael stared at each of them until they looked away, unable to handle the intense heat of his gaze without melting. 

“You may take your leave. The room is getting far too crowded for my tastes.” Raphael waved the party off, walking back to his desk. He left the painting floating above him. 

“Gods, I thought he’d never ask. Fucking prick.” Karlach whispered, practically sprinting out the room. 

“Tav, you owe me a damned drink.” Astarion groaned.

Shadowheart had no words, but she curiously eyed the painting a final time before trailing after Astarion. 

“Don’t disappoint me, little mouse. The fate of the world, our very futures, hang over your shoulders.”

Tav remained in the room, staring amorously into Raphael’s eyes. He held his breath, relishing the seconds he was allowed to devour her magnificence.

“Thank you." Tav mouthed, and quickly made her exit.

Raphael released a sigh, resting a hand on his desk to keep himself from combusting. That damned woman.

The curtain had fallen on this act, but it was not yet the finale. Change was brewing, mists of uncertainty clouding Raphael’s judgement, and for once, he was not fearful of what was to come.

[br0ps]

[dmagedgoods]

Make Raphael Romanceable

We are actually doing it, we are going to send an email to Larian and ask for a Raphael romance. It will look like this:

Dear Larian, firstly, we are grateful for your hard work and willingness to listen to fan feedback. Few developers are in touch with their communities, and we are very grateful for these efforts. Integrating Haarlep showed that you respected feedback received in Early Access requesting additional Raphael content. While Haarlep is dear to the community, and much appreciated, he is not the devil we know. We adore and love Raphael and it is him we urgently want to romance. Therefore, we are writing to you in the hope that you will give us a Raphael romance, either implemented in the game or as a DLC. Most of us are willing to pay the full game price again just to have this wish fulfilled. What we are hoping for in detail:

options to flirt with him

one or two camp scene(s) with him

at least one romance scene with him (not Haarlep)

the option to kiss him like the other companions once he's romanced

the option to spare him after the battle (no matter if romanced or not)

the option to have him as a permanent member of the group like Halsin if we work with him

his assistance in the final fight if we don't betray him

the option to visit the House of Hope without sneaking in if we sign the deal

Attached, you find posts asking for it on tumblr.com, and a petition with the signatures of fans sharing this wish. Yours sincerely, A big group of Raphael-enjoyers

But to make this work, I'll need to collect a few voices first. Please, if you're interested in a Raphael romance, more content with him, or just want to help us achieve our goal: you can sign the petition here. 💖 Also if you know ways to show this to more people, go ahead!

[adarlingmess]

𝕺𝖘𝖈𝖚𝖑𝖚𝖒 𝕴𝖓𝖋𝖊𝖗𝖓𝖆

"𝔏𝔞𝔶 𝔞 𝔟𝔞𝔫𝔮𝔲𝔢𝔱 𝔟𝔢𝔣𝔬𝔯𝔢 𝔪𝔢, 𝔞𝔫𝔡 𝔱𝔥𝔢 𝔱𝔞𝔰𝔱𝔢 𝔬𝔣 𝔶𝔬𝔲𝔯 𝔩𝔦𝔭𝔰 𝔦𝔰 𝔰𝔱𝔦𝔩𝔩 𝔴𝔥𝔞𝔱 ℑ 𝔠𝔯𝔞𝔳𝔢 𝔱𝔥𝔢 𝔪𝔬𝔰𝔱."

Art for @dmagedgoods' Raphael Romance Event! The Raphael romance petition exceeded 1000 signatures a while back and what better way to celebrate it than to participate in this event 💖

[nikjima]

Hello, I made a mod as my contribution to the Make Raphael Romanceable event. I don't know what else to say because I don't use Tumblr unless a friend links me to specific things. Please enjoy, thank you. 💜

[ninitenebrae]

I hope this counts as a submission for makeraphaelromanceable @dmagedgoods anyway I really liked this 'incorrect quote' and it was fun to draw! maybe there will be a sequel to this :3c

[coyote-ralyn]

Infernal pleasure.

Raphael/my boy drow Tav

I did this sketch for the Raphael romance event of @dmagedgoods

[tavyliasin]

The Devil On Their Doorstep - Raphael Romance Event

My first of 2 entries into the "Make Raphael Romanceable" Event by @dmagedgoods - a bit of fun with our favourite cambion~

--- The day has been saved, but Tav finds themself alone in the rickety hovel they're trying to call a home in Baldur's Gate's lower city. It turns out that being a hero isn't all it's cracked up to be when half the city you saved still needs to be rebuilt... However, a certain devil made a promise, and he has finally turned up to deliver it. --- Click here to read on AO3 1,547 Words Pairing: Raphael x Gender Neutral Tav SPICE Rating: 0/5, we're only here for the romance today~ Content Warnings: None Spoilers: End game and post game spoilers alluded to though not the focus. Canon Compliance: Oh, we wish~ Though the setup should fit with most canon, as long as certain deals were upheld.

Paired Song Devil's Plaything by Liv Sin "Love is a flame A devil's thing A violent storm About to be born

Just look in these eyes See all the lies All the things you see You cannot deny

And this flame That burns inside If you get too close Burn you alive

Just look in these eyes And see if they lie All these words I speak You cannot deny"

--- --- Full Fic Below The Cut! --- ---

A simple knock, that’s all it was. A firm rap of knuckles upon hard wood that echoed with the ominous presence that stood behind it. Tav looked at the door as if it could reveal the secrets of the visitor’s identity with just a stern glance, but they felt they knew exactly who it was even as their hand reached for the lock.

He could be patient, but he would not be kept waiting for long.

Tav grimaced at the creaking of rusty hinges as the door to their simple home opened to reveal the visitor upon the threshold, suddenly feeling far too exposed under his amber-tinted eyes. 

Raphael.

True to his word, the devil had indeed come knocking at their door, although to their surprise his chestnut hair was not topped with the crown he had been given, nor with the horns of his cambion form. Instead, he stood before them much the same as he had upon their first meeting, the charm almost radiating from him. For all intents and purposes, he appeared to be little more than a well-kept nobleman paying a visit to the riff-raff of the lower city for reasons that were on a need to know basis. And right now, Tav needed to know… “Well?” Raphael looked on expectantly, sunlight forming a deceptive halo behind him.

“Oh…oh!” Tav suddenly remembered their manners, several moments too late if the slight crinkling of the devil’s nose was any way to judge it. “Please, do come in. I…I’m sorry it’s a bit-” 

“No matter, if I had required a more suitable entrance, Little Mouse, I would have brought you to my home rather than coming to see you here.” He swept past them, the lingering aroma of cherry, palmarosa, and black pepper in his perfumes drifting with him. They remembered it well, the same scent following him everywhere he went like a signature of his presence written in the very air around him. “I believe I promised to come knocking at your door, so here I am. Tongue and all.” 

A slight shiver of anticipation crept up Tav’s spine as they recalled the times they’d met before. Barbed words exchanged, their verbal games of cat and mouse that seemed all too real when he took his other form, yet somehow they had managed to impress him. And of course, the found his presence to be…captivating. They closed the door and motioned to the table and chairs, where sad wilted flowers sat in an equally depressing vase, providing the only colour upon the dreary, cracked wood. “Please, take a seat-”

“No, no. This will not do.” Raphael tutted, gesturing disapprovingly towards the pitiful array of furniture. With a wave of his hands, the rickety chairs were replaced with mahogany and velvet cushions, the table a polished and ornately carved piece that would not look out of place in a palace. The drooping blossoms became an impossibly large bouquet of crimson roses, a hue not unlike his cambion skin - even the cruelly sharp thorns were reminiscent of his claws and the wicked barbs upon his horns. Of course he would leave his mark upon their home. “There, isn’t that better?” 

“Thank you, I think…” Tav looked at the chairs, noting that one was a little larger and more throne-like than the others. Wisely, they chose to sit on the one opposite. “So, to what do I owe the honour of your visit?” They cringed at the formality of their own words, but speaking casually felt like it would be vastly inappropriate in the face of the grandiose gestures they had been presented with. “Do I need to check those ears of yours? Or did the tadpole take a little too much of your mind before you were rid of it?” Despite his words, the devil had a grin upon his face, watching every moment of their reaction as he took his seat and leaned back against the plush upholstery. “I told you, did I not, that I promised a visit once my crown had been delivered. Thus, I have come to make good on my word.” 

“The crown,” Tav’s eyes drifted to the empty space upon his head, “where is it?” 

“I hardly require such a powerful trinket for a chat, do I? Or is your hospitality to be as short-lived as your fame and fortune for being a hero?”  The smirk had an edge of cruelty as the words cut like daggers. It was true - despite everything, Tav had ended up here, in a half-broken shack in the Lower City, barely any coin left to their name. “Such gratitude, but fear not - I will not allow my favourite client to remain destitute.” 

“You’re not suggesting I make a deal, are you? I think I’ve had enough contracts for one lifetime, if it’s all the same to you.” They could almost feel his claws looming above them, waiting to descend in a trap they would have no way out of this time. 

“Now what makes you think that? No, I’m not here for your soul - you are far from the depths of desperation which would make it worth my time to watch you squirm under my grasp.” Tav flinched as he raised his hand, but was surprised to see wine conjured into it instead of any danger, glasses appearing on the table along with a small feast of delicacies. “Might I instead propose a toast, and a far simpler exchange. I will brighten your home, show you the gratitude that this city has neglected to do so, and all you need to do is share this evening with me.” 

“That… It sounds too simple. What’s the catch?” They regarded him carefully, expecting the food to change to rotten scraps, or the wine to contain some vicious poison to which only he held the cure. 

“So suspicious, Little Mouse, but that is how you lived this long after all, is it not?” Raphael’s expression softened, which was somehow even more disconcerting. “There would be little point in poisoning my favourite client, nor do I wish to see you meet your untimely demise or become a pitiful debtor beneath my heel. I will eat before you, if that would ease your mind, though I would rather earn your trust with my words. Hell has its laws, and I am not one to break them.” “Then…if that’s all it is, just an evening? I…I don’t see why not.” Tav thought it over. It was simple, and the devil was already beginning to dine. Besides, it wasn’t as if spending more time with him hadn’t crossed their mind. The thought came to them often, wondering what it might be like to know him without the pressure of the tadpole burrowing through their skull, without the ink of the contract underlining every moment of their conversation. “It’s a deal, then. One evening.” 

“There, that wasn’t so hard, was it?” Raphael smiled, watching over his wine as they selected all of their favourite foods, sipping from their own chalice, finally beginning to relax.

—

It took several hours to finish the meal, the pair discussing all kinds of matters from the mundane to the unthinkable depths of the devil’s dealings. An observer might have thought them to be old friends catching up after a time apart, or perhaps young lovers on a first date learning all there was to know about one another.

Tav found themselves wishing the meal would never end, but truth be told it felt as if one more bite might cause them to burst apart at the seams - and that would not be fitting for the company they now kept.. 

“Here, drink this.” Raphael handed over a small crystal glass, which like everything else appeared to have been plucked from thin air. “A simple remedy, for overindulgence.” 

This time, Tav didn’t question it. The liquid was cool and soothing, a lingering taste of mint and herbs that sank to their stomach like a soft caress. Within moments, they felt completely refreshed. “How-” 

“One must be prepared, Little Mouse.” He stood from his chair, and their heart dropped at the thought he might leave. “Speaking of, you are hardly dressed for the occasion.” 

“Occasion? What do you mean?” “Why, a dance, of course.” Once again, the devil waved his hands and Tav’s own outfit transformed this time. Worn leathers and threadbare cloth replaced by embroidered silks that fit their form beautifully, black and gold with hints of red and a wide crimson sash at their waist. He nodded his approval. “Better.” 

Tav began to protest, their cheeks beginning to match the embellishments of their outfit. “This is…it’s too much-”  

“No such thing,” he dismissed their concern once more before infernal flames wrapped around his body transforming him into his towering cambion form. Suddenly, ethereal music began to weave through the air as he bowed and extended a hand to them. Tav’s heart tried to make an escape through their throat, leaping at the sight of the devil himself lowering his horns before them in a graceful gesture that would not be out of place in a romance novel. His next words sealed the fate of their heart in a single divine moment: “May I have the honour of this dance?” 

--- --- ENDING NOTES --- --- If the game doesn't give us the romance of our dreams, we will keep making our own~ I hope this brings thoughts of our favourite devil to the doorstep of your mind, the second piece (coming soon!) features a little more romance, and a promised dance~ (It's not quite intended as a sequel, but it also fits well enough to count...it's up to you how you read them~)

[nepherit]

[archesa]

It started out as a feeling, which then grew into a hope...

Stumbled upon a post that is now lost forever to the algorythm about doing this quizz as your OC and posting the results, so I'm giving it a shot!

Lyra Arendil - Cleric of Corellon - Heartwoven

Love as a Threshold

Your love does not ask for much. Your love does not take. Your love is free, and unquestioned, and here for wherever needs it. When you fall in love, it is as gentle as a breath in the night. It is quiet, and it is effortless. It is tender. If your love was a house, it would readily welcome all who come through. If your love was a hearth, it would warm the hands of whoever stopped by, whether for a day, a month, a year, or forever. When you fall for someone, it is without strings, without conditions, without need. You love for the sake of loving, for the sake of caring for those who need it. You love with a giver’s heart and a giver’s hands and are made so much stronger for it. Being loved by you is to always feel at home. Your love may not always be well-received by those unprepared to linger, but it is unforgettable all the same.

Liliana Emrynn - Paladin of Lathander - Morning Star

Love as Youth

Your love is buoyant. Your love is bountiful. It is ageless, and it will never age. When you fall in love, it is breathless. It is joyful and endless, it is magnificent. You think it, like your youth , will last forever. Youth is eternal, and so is your love. Your love skips rocks and tells stories, your love roasts marshmallows over fires, and laughs freely. Your love does not take itself too seriously. Your love is jumping into puddles just to watch the water splash, and dancing in the rain, and it is watching Sunday morning reruns of cartoons to feel young once more. Your love is forever, forever young. Being loved by you is to be loved by the summer months. And those never end, do they? Well, I won’t tell if you don’t.

Malika Avellanarius - Bard of the College of Swords - Cat & Mouse

Love as a Force of Nature

Your love is like whiplash –– it comes in with the rain, it blows the doors wide open. When you fall in love, it is sudden and hard and immense. It is powerful. It is earth-shaking and world-ending. Nature is a force, and that force can be destructive if you're not careful. See how the world is doused in gasoline and set on fire –– your love consumes, your love takes, your love burns. You're hot and cold all at once, a hurricane and a wildfire bound together in skin, and when you're in love, it can feel like it's eating you alive from the inside out. When you love, it is with everything you have because it is everything you have. Be careful, darling, because not everyone survives the storm.

[scuttlingcrab]

Fiendish Rewards

Summary: Raphael appears at Withers' party, hoping to finally collect the Crown of Karsus from Tav. However, an unexpected turn of events causes Raphael to re-think his plans.

Notes: Featuring growing tensions and light angst. I always wondered what would happen when Raphael wore the Crown for the first time. This might be a wee bit too long but I initially intended this to be another submission for @dmagedgoods Raphael romance collection.

Link to my other work in the Devil's Archive.

(Image via raphael-ancunin)

Raphael knew he was intruding. He had no business attending Withers' party, yet he arrived fashionably late all the same. He would never show his face, grace the companions with his presence, merely to exchange pleasantries. As tempting as their tadpole-free souls were, the simple minded mortals had no meaning to him now that the Elder Brain was defeated. That evening Raphael’s only desire was to collect the Crown of Karsus. And perhaps, converse with that little mouse, if time allowed. 

Thus, the Devil did what he knew best: lurked from the shadows of the wings and listened for his cue. 

Raphael had abided for over a millennium after he lost the Crown to Mephistopheles, lashing out with such violent anger in the first century that he nearly eradicated an entire plane. That initial taste of defeat never left his memory; the bitterness, that rotting feeling he felt deep within his core still haunted him. It was his first introduction to failure and the last. 

He eventually learned how to forge that frothing hatred for his father, his revulsion at the cursed cards he had been dealt with, into a far more superior weapon: knowledge, his greatest strength. Raphael researched, manipulated, and opened up the recesses of his mind to devour the ins-and-outs of the Hells. He painstakingly plotted, weaving his schemes into the very fabric of fate itself, planting the seeds of prosperity for what he hoped would eventually gain him a win.

Despite all Raphael had endured since the collapse of Netheril, the last 6 months had been the most excruciating. Waiting. Watching. Hoping. There was no longer an Archdevil in his path, but a mere mortal. His hunger for power grew rampant as he watched Tav continue to elude him, to harbour the final piece of his victory as she tried to reclaim what was left of her old life. That selfish creature. 

To Tav’s credit, she had been quite remarkable on the battlefield, showcasing her strength and resolve as she smited enemies and climbed through the carnage to her destiny. She left a sea of corpses in her wake, the mortal rubble alone was unlike anything Raphael had ever seen. Out of all the calamities he had been fortunate enough to craft and witness, being a spectator during the fight against the Netherbrain would forever be a highlight.

When the Crown fell into the River Chionthar, Raphael eagerly watched as Tav spent weeks fishing it out, taking her precious time as she retrieved each broken piece of his future. He restlessly stormed the halls of his domain, cursing the woman for attempting such an arduous task alone. He could have aided her, sent in Korrilla as a last resort, but he refused. He would not give Tav the satisfaction, she would have to work just a little more to complete her end of the bargain. Besides, there was something endearing about watching Tav work so diligently, the determination in those eyes reminded Raphael of himself.

The little mouse was Raphael’s greatest investment and he’d be damned if she failed him now, or if he let his sudden affinity for her overtake his true purpose. Raphael’s ambitions for the Crown had somehow intertwined with his infatuation for the woman, and he was just as much to blame.

He had let this farce go on for long enough. Raphael would not stoop so low in his final moments before he rose to glory. Once Tav crowned him, these foolish emotions would cease and he would continue with his grand plan. He was a Devil and he would not let these cursed mortal emotions falter his intentions any longer; he would never allow anything, anyone, to destroy his work. Raphael’s blood, sweat, and tears would not be in vain. 

Cheering suddenly came from the camp as Tav and her companions raised their chalices in celebration. Withers' speech had finally ended, much to Raphael’s delight. He wasn’t sure how much longer he could’ve listened to the monotonous dribble. The monologue was indeed rousing, but Raphael could’ve done better, if given the opportunity. 

One by one, the group of heroes slowly disbanded, until only Tav remained. She made her way around the camp, stopping by each empty tent. It was as if the little mouse was paying her respects, bidding farewell to the ghosts of her past.

When Tav was done she wandered to the lakefront and sat down on a mossy rock, staring into the sparkling evening sky. The light in her own eyes vanished, leaving a dark cloud looming above her. 

Raphael took that as his signal. He quietly removed himself from the cover of the treeline and began his entrance, approaching Tav with a swagger. 

“If it isn’t the hero of Baldur’s Gate. My, how far we’ve come! It feels like only yesterday you fell from the skies, tadpole and all, and began your little adventure; slowly scurrying your way to triumph.”

Tav smiled at the sound of Raphael’s voice, turning to greet him. They locked eyes, her expression brightening. That look pierced through Raphael’s defences with such ease, a slight chill crawling up from the base of his spine. He stopped in his tracks, quickly recovering by placing a hand on his hip. It had been too long since they were alone, when he had last gazed into those cursed eyes. Careful now. 

“Raphael, always the poet.”

“The little mouse is no longer, but now a ferocious lion. Congratulations are in order.”

Raphael gifted Tav with his most flourishing bow, hoping the gesture would distract from his earlier misstep.  

“Now do tell, how does it feel to be the victor? To have saved the world? Is it as the bards have sung?” Raphael rose, taking another step towards Tav. 

Tav merely shrugged, her lips quickly returning to a frown. 

“Dunno.”

“I would have thought a hero to be more eloquent.”

“I'm still waiting for that ‘ah-ha!’ moment, but if we’re being honest tonight, I’m not really sure what it means to be a hero.”

“You will come to understand eventually. It’s the very nature of your existence.”

Tav remained silent, pulling her eyes away from Raphael. She stared down at her hands, studying her scarred palms.

“May I?” Raphael inquired, gesturing towards the available space on the rock. 

Tav nodded and Raphael sat himself beside her, intentionally leaving a minimal amount of space between them.

“You have something that belongs to me.”

“There it is,” Tav said, through a faint laugh, “You know, I was expecting you to come sooner.”

“I’ve often found the best persuasions are the ones that aren't forced.”

Tav looked up at Raphael, her eyes moving over every inch of his guise, stopping briefly near his lips. He was close now, so close. To the Crown. To his objectives. And to that damned woman.  

“May I see the Crown, please?”

Tav smiled, moving towards Raphael. For a split second, Raphael expected a kiss. It was only natural for mortals to attempt such a distraction in times of distress. Infuriating as it was, he wouldn’t have been opposed to such a notion. Tav instead reached down for her backpack lying in the sand, placing it on her lap. 

She pulled open the straps and yanked out the Crown, handling it as if it was but a petty trinket. Raphael suppressed a sigh, he would not let the significance of this moment be soiled due to the mortal’s lack of formality. 

“I managed to reforge it, to the best of my abilities, thanks to the Annals of Karsus. Though I haven't tried it on yet to see if it worked.”

“A wise choice.” 

Tav held the Crown out towards Raphael, but he raised his hand. With a flick of his wrist, the Crown floated out of Tav’s grasp, slowly moving towards him. It was just as beautiful as he remembered, if not more so. It glistened under the moonlight, calling to him. Soon. Very soon. He let the Crown hover, spinning delicately, for a few more seconds.

“Do you need me to remind you of our terms? The deal was that you are to crown me. I would’ve come to you long ago if I could simply put it on myself.”

“Gods. Really, Raphael?” 

“Truly.” Raphael donned his notorious smirk in response.

“Fine, are we to do this here then?”

“I couldn't think of a more fitting location.” 

Raphael rose, walking towards the middle of the lakefront. He snapped his fingers, and a luscious red silk pillow appeared. He shifted it slightly in the sand and bent a knee, preparing himself for the crowning. 

“Come, it is time.” 

Tav stood intending to grab the Crown, but before she could reach it, Raphael beckoned it towards him. Tav quickly followed, positioning herself above Raphael. He raised his head to gaze at the magnificent sight in front of him. The moonlight framed Tav perfectly, she was silhouetted against the dark sky, glowing. The Crown and the little mouse, side-by-side, as it was always destined to be. 

Raphael took a deep breath, closing his eyes. He absorbed the scents and sounds around him; earthy tones, a hint of wetness, mixed with the fresh woodland air. Faint chirping from various insects called out to him, the leaves rustled slightly against the warm summer wind. His heartbeat intensified, growing more rapid, adding an extra drum beat to the night’s symphony. 

“Let’s get on with it then.” Tav spoke. 

Raphael opened his eyes and watched Tav grab the Crown, lowering it on top of his head. 

When the Crown touched his forehead, it reformed itself to accommodate his size, shrinking to provide a snugger fit. It hissed into place and then in an instant, everything changed. 

Pain, pleasure, fear, anger, confusion; every possible emotion tore through his very being. He was ripped in two, three, four… millions of tiny little pieces. His head throbbed with information, so many secrets, so much… he saw and felt everything, what could’ve been, what might come to pass… it was too much. Too much! Too fast! 

He fell forwards, his hands digging, ripping through sand. He was alone, always alone, darkness surrounded him. No. There was light, light flooded in from the top of his skull, projecting into every possible direction. He was the light. He was the dark. He was all-encompassing. 

Raphael screamed, his voice echoing into the abyss around him. He had never read about such a reaction, in all his years of researching, how could he have missed… could it be because… NO. He will tame this. He will persist. He will… 

The sand beneath Raphael turned to liquid as the newfound power continued to surge through his limbs, burning his veins. He tore at his own flesh and bones to rid himself of the agony, but it wouldn’t come to an end. 

“Raphael!” He heard a voice shout, such a familiar tune. But who? He couldn’t quite place it.

Raphael erupted, his devilish wings tearing through the skin in his back. There were flames all around him, growing hotter, thicker. His chest melted, his ears ached from the thunderous explosions. Whispers, whispers everywhere. He heard so many, and the cries, the screams. Would they never cease? 

Something tore at his head, pulling the Crown away from him. The Crown. NO! He cannot lose it again. Raphael raised his hands attempting to fight back, but he was grasping at nothing. It was over as fast as it had begun. There was now silence. 

Raphael’s vision cleared. He was on his back, looking up at the stars. Tav stood over him, holding the Crown in her hands. She eyed him with concern, tears flooding down her cheeks. He raised his own hands, his claws trembling. Raphael tried to think but his mind was vacant, every thought achingly bounced back. His skin burned, bones ached. There were deep lacerations all over his body, his own hands were covered in blood. He gasped, looking at Tav’s body but found no abrasions. He let out a disgruntled sigh. If he had harmed her in his rage, in those brief seconds of failure… would he ever forgive himself? 

Tav threw the Crown aside and helped Raphael to his feet. His eyes followed the artefact as it landed on top of the sand, taunting him still. How?

As if reading Raphael’s mind, Withers' voice cut through the silence as he appeared before them.

“Thou hast succeeded but are not yet ready. Take care that thou are not too hasty, thine pursuits will lead to plights.” There was a long pause as Withers continued staring at Raphael, looking straight through him. He met Withers’ expressionless gaze, waiting for him to continue. “The pattern has been woven and all circumstances interlaced are as fate decided.” 

Raphael never imagined the consequences of his premature investiture. He was always going to reforge the Crown himself, in his own image. How could he possibly trust a mortal to handle such a relic successfully? But in the heat of the moment, and in the fine print of the very deal he crafted, he had opened himself up to carelessness, becoming the very thing he despised.

His eyes darted to Tav, searching the woman for any excuse against his actions but he could only look at her with veneration. He would not blame her for everything. His vanity, eagerness… his obsession for the Crown and that cursed woman nearly brought him to his untimely demise. Let this be a lesson to Raphael to heed his own warnings. The Devil would need to cool his heels in preparation for the battles looming ahead.

Raphael turned to face Withers, but the curious being had vanished. Instead he hummed thoughtfully, looking at Tav. 

She stood next to him, her body trembling. Tav's eyes were fixed on Raphael, still full of worry but there was something else present, another emotion he thought he’d never see from a mortal again.

Tav’s expression sent a sudden stabbing pain through his chest as a wave of nostalgia washed over him. There was another mortal who had once looked at him with the same kindness and understanding. He had buried it deep within his subconscious, but it was rising back to the surface, like a blooming flower. He would NOT allow himself anymore turmoil this evening.

“I owe you my thanks.” Raphael whispered, his voice on the verge of cracking.

“Raphael, I don’t understand, you were nea…” 

“If you value your life, you will hold your tongue. There will be no talk of this moment again. Ever. Have I made myself clear?”

Tav’s eyes widened at his sudden change of tone, but she nodded nonetheless. 

“I must return to my House of Hope. For healing and reflection. There is work yet to be done, as you have borne witness to this evening.” Raphael snapped his fingers, a raging portal materialised behind him. “You may join me, if you so wish.”

Raphael extended his arm, welcoming her acceptance. 

“Would you consider our deal completed then?” Tav asked, apprehensively. 

“You have upheld your end of the agreement, exceptionally well, might I add, bar this evening's hiccup. Now please, let me show you my appreciation.” 

A dash of colour appeared on Tav’s cheeks as she wiped away the remaining tears. She grabbed her backpack, placing the Crown inside. She swiftly reached for Raphael’s hand, squeezing it tightly. Raphael nodded in acknowledgment and led Tav through the portal. 

Indeed, their deal was complete, but Raphael wasn’t done with Tav yet. She would continue to prove a valuable ally and more in the months to come.

[belierdigitalis]

@dmagedgoods

The dinner ending *I* want and originally wrote for my current fic, but my tav had different plans and skewed the story, so here it goes.

[dmagedgoods]

Raphael Romance Event

The Raphael Romance Event Doc is here!

I'm very happy about how it turned out and I hope you all enjoy it too.

In this time of tension, it may also remind us to refocus on how amazing we are if we just enjoy our devil together, create, have fun, and share our excitement. I met beautiful people in this fandom and I'm so grateful for all the good times we had, and, hopefully, for those yet to come.

If you participated, please check:

If your submission is in there and I didn't forget anything.

If your name is the one you want to use for it and written correctly.

If you'd like me to add a direct link to one of your accounts.

If the name of your OC is written correctly in case you wanted me to add it.

If you'd like me to add a title for your piece, change a title, or add the name of your OC as a title when it's not there already.

If anything is off with your submission.

And message me about needed changes or comment to this post.

I will send the document to Larian this Thursday, the 6th of June.